David Gareja (Georgian: დავითგარეჯის სამონასტრო კომპლექსი, Davit'garejis samonastro komplek'si, sometimes spelled Davit Gareja) is a rock-hewn Georgian Orthodox monastery complex in the Kakheti region of Georgia.
The monastery lies on the half-desert slopes of Mount Gareja, 60–70 km southeast of Georgia's capital Tbilisi, and is even partially in Azerbaijan.
Although most of the complex is in Georgia, part of the site is in Azerbaijan, and the exact border is still the subject of a dispute between these countries.
No entrance fees.
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The main monastery is right behind the small parking lot. You can visit most of it; the rooms not allowed to tourists are clearly marked with "no entrance" signs, in both English and Georgian.
See the tomb of the first monk to have lived there (St. David Garejeli).
Then, you can follow the path starting right behind the church shop, that goes on the top of the small mountain. There, you have a wonderful view towards both Georgia and Azerbaijan. And you will see many troglodyte churches, some of them with paintings from the 11th and 12th centuries. Total time: about 1hr 30min, using a sometimes steep path.
Wandering around is the activity of choice.
The church shop at the entrance of the site sells some religious objects.
There are numerous places to eat and drink in Udabno, the town just before the monastery. Or you can just bring your own food.
- Black Horse Restaurant, Udabno (the exact location on Google Maps, +995 551979694. Traditional Georgian cuisine based mostly on fresh local products and a wide selection of drinks in the bar. Comfortable place to relax with great views.
Black Horse Restaurant, Udabno (the exact location on Google Maps, +995 551979694. Traditional Georgian cuisine based mostly on fresh local products and a wide selection of drinks in the bar. Comfortable place to relax with great views.
The monastery is partly inside of Azerbaijan. Generally, the entry is possible without any problems, but sometimes Azeri soldiers might block the way due to current or recent differences between the two countries. This might be troublesome, but it does not pose any danger to tourists.
Travelling further is not possible. Travel into Azerbaijan requires a visa and a proper border control.
It's often windy; so during winter be sure to wear warm clothes.
Toilets are available in the building next to the parking lot for 0.50 lari.
Probably the Oasis Club also has WiFi. Out of all mobile carriers Magti has the best reception and 4G internet is available along most of the way and at David Gareja. You can buy a simcard package in Sagarejo or Rustavi.
- Rustavi – a post-Soviet upcoming city with the Sioni Church, 30 km W
- Gurjaani – one of the centres of Georgia's wine industry. Landmarks include the Church of the Dormition aka Church of All Saints (Kvelatsminda; 8th-9th century), 60-80 km NE
- Sighnaghi – a restored wine town with an Old Town, the Pirosmani Museum and an extensive fortifications, as well as the Bodbe Monastery (aka Bodbe Convent or St. George of Bodbe) on its outskirts, 50 km NE
- Telavi – nearby Alaverdi Monastery and gateway to Tusheti National Park, 70 km N
Also, see Kakheti region for more details.